Early Look at Visit Mississippi's Kermit Rose Parade Float!

Back in September, Visit Mississippi unveiled the concept art for its creativity-themed Rose Parade float—and now we have our first look at the float itself. 

Titled “Where Creativity Blooms,” the float celebrates the state’s deep artistic roots, highlighting Mississippi’s rich literary and musical legacy.

At the heart of the design is Kermit the Frog, honoring Mississippi native Jim Henson, the legendary creator of the Muppets. The iconic character serves as a playful yet meaningful tribute to the creativity that has blossomed from the Magnolia State.

Adding to the celebration, country music star and Mississippi native Charlie Worsham will perform live atop the float during the parade, bringing Mississippi’s musical heritage to life for millions of viewers.

In true Rose Parade fashion, the details are as impressive as the theme. Kermit the Frog is constructed entirely from split peas, while magnolias, Mississippi’s state flower, are featured throughout the float, symbolizing beauty, growth, and creative expression.

Take a look a the float and what to expect in Charlie Worsham interview from Mississippi's WLOX.

The 137th Rose Parade will be broadcast from live Pasadena, California, New Year’s Day at 11AM EST/ 8AM PSD on NBC. 

Visit Mississippi Features Kermit on 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade Float!

Kermit the Frog will be front and center on Visit Mississippi's 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade Float. 

For the second consecutive year, Mississippi will take part in the iconic Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day.

Visit Mississippi, the state’s tourism agency, announced on Wednesday that its 2026 Rose Parade float will carry the theme “Mississippi: Where Creativity Blooms.” While the 2025 float focused exclusively on Mississippi-born musicians, next year’s entry will offer a broader tribute to the state’s wide-ranging artistic legacy.

At the heart of the float will be Kermit the Frog, honoring Mississippi native Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets. Enhancing the celebration of the arts, Mississippi-born country music artist Charlie Worsham will perform live on the float, joined by dancers in a lively showcase of the state’s creative spirit.

The float will also feature a stage adorned with artwork inspired by the late Walter Anderson, a beloved artist from Ocean Springs. Directional signs will point to key cultural landmarks across the state, including the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience in Meridian, the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art in Biloxi, the USA International Ballet Competition in Jackson, and the Mississippi Writers Trail.

A symbolic stack of books will display covers of works by legendary Mississippi authors such as Eudora Welty, William Faulkner, Willie Morris, Tennessee Williams, Richard Wright, and Jesmyn Ward.

According to Visit Mississippi executive director Rochelle Hicks, the float serves as a vibrant tribute to the state’s profound artistic impact — from leading the nation in Grammy Awards per capita to producing Pulitzer and Nobel Prize-winning talent.

“We’re thrilled to showcase Mississippi’s creative heartbeat on a global stage,” Hicks said. “This float is more than a celebration – it’s a tribute to the artists, musicians, and storytellers who continue to inspire generations.”

When you Visit Mississippi be sure to stop at the Birthplace of the Frog and see all the great Muppet memorabilia on display.  

The 137th Rose Parade will take place on Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Thanks to Davis.Muppets for the heads up.